6-time Sultan Azlan Shah Cup champions Australia has always been the team to beat. Again, like many other teams at this tournament, coach extraordinaire Ric Charlesworth has brought with him five young players making their international debut. While they should be given the exposure at an international level, Australia is also vying to bag their seventh championship here, which will be a tournament record.

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However, India was no walkover. India is traditionally a strong hockey nation as field hockey is its national sport. Coached by Australian Michael Nobbs, who took the team to London Olympics 2012, it seems India has now adopted Australia’s hockey playing style.

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At half time, India was down by nil to one, but quickly picked up pace during the second half with three goals. Yet, they conceded defeat when the final whistle blew. Nobbs deduced that it was inexperience that cost them the game. Nevertheless, it was a good learning curve for the youngsters.